Free Tax Filing Options – TurboTax

How To Free File Online Using The IRS Website

How To Free File Online Using The IRS Website

Many taxpayers are using free file online programs that are based on popular tax software programs like the TurboTax 2013 programs. The free file online program is offered directly by the IRS on their website. It is available to all taxpayers, but different taxpayers can access different portions of the program based on their income and other factors.

The IRS free file online program connects taxpayers with participating software companies like TurboTax 2013. Taxpayers can choose between a range of software programs including the TurboTax 2013 Freedom edition. Once the taxpayer has selected a software company, they can get started on their returns.

English: YOU ARE FREE TO USE THIS FILE (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Taxpayers who have an adjusted gross income of $57,000 or less can file using the free program. Taxpayers who earn more than that amount cannot use the free software programs. However, they can download free file online forms. These forms are primarily for people who enjoy doing their own taxes. Using these forms, these taxpayers can prepare and file their own taxes online. However, these taxpayers do not get the extra assistance that is offered to people who can take advantage of programs like the TurboTax 2013 software programs.

Before they get started with the program, taxpayers need to prepare themselves. They will need to have copies of their last year’s tax return, copies of their W-2s, 1099s, and any other information that they will need for their taxes. For instance, taxpayers who plan to itemize their deductions may want copies of their charitable deductions or information on how much interest they have paid to their mortgage company throughout the year.

Before starting, taxpayers should also estimate their adjusted gross income. If you have not had any significant changes to your income over the last year, you should be able to estimate your adjustable gross income using last year’s tax return. Once you have determined whether or not your adjusted gross income is more or less than $57,000, you will know which program you are allowed to use. About 70% of all taxpayers have adjusted gross incomes of less than $57,000 so the chances are high that you will qualify to file free online.

Once you have completed the tax preparation work, you can submit your return electronically with the click of a few buttons. If you qualify for a tax refund, you can elect to have it mailed to you in a paper check, or you can have it electronically deposited into your bank account. Electronic deposits are typically the fastest way to get your returns, and you may see your refund within three weeks or less of your filing date. If you owe taxes, you can also make your payments electronically.

The free file online program is perfect for many taxpayers. However, taxpayers with unique situations may simply want to use some of the low cost software offered by a company like TurboTax 2013. This is especially true for people who own their own businesses or who need to file an extension.